Australia prohibits third Briese heavy lift ship due to safety breaches

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has imposed a 90-day ban on the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged cargo vessel BBC Jade, operated by Briese Heavylift GmbH & Co, due to safety breaches. This is the third vessel from Briese Heavylift to receive a ban this year. During an inspection in Port Alma, AMSA inspectors found 57 tons of explosive materials improperly stowed aboard the ship, violating the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.

In response to the safety breach, AMSA’s acting chief executive, Evan Boyle, emphasized the necessity of the ban, citing the operator’s continued poor performance and the importance of ensuring the safe transport of dangerous goods. He urged Australian companies to be cautious when selecting transport vessels for dangerous goods and highlighted the serious maritime safety and environmental concerns associated with such breaches. Boyle emphasized that AMSA takes its role as a regulator seriously and will not hesitate to take strong enforcement measures to ensure the safety of seas and seafarers.

In addition to AMSA’s findings, Antigua and Barbuda’s flag state control also identified other safety violations on board BBC Jade, which are currently being processed. The enforcement measures taken by AMSA serve as a reminder of the importance of strict adherence to international safety standards and regulations in maritime transport.

Source .